University of Richmond Athletics
Spiders Read To Captive Audience
11/16/2004 | General
Nov. 16, 2004
"I'm going to shake, shake, shake my wiggles out."
There aren't many settings in this world where you can hear that line from a children's book sung by a 225-pound fullback who is also a national champion wrestler.
But if you were one of 650 students at Salem Church Elementary School on Monday, you had your chance.
Of the approximately 40 elementary schools in Chesterfield County, Salem Church had the highest percentage of students participate in Chesterfield Library's Summer Reading Program. Part of their award was having six University of Richmond student-athletes blanket the school in 20-minute increments, reading to each classroom.
Senior football player Brandon Neuman and freshman baseball players Hank Coogan, Alex Hale, Joe Mahoney, Austin Reilly and Joe White volunteered their time - and voice - on Monday for the sake of a smiling child.
Reading several books, shaking many hands and signing numerous autographs filled the afternoon for these elite athletes.
"It was fun," Neuman said upon returning to campus. "I couldn't believe how many questions they asked. I don't know how elementary school teachers do it. I'm exhausted."
